Family mediation is a special form of alternative dispute resolution that differs from civil and commercial mediation in that it addresses conflict arising from strong personal and emotional relationships, often involving children. In family law matters, mediation enables the parties to reach an amicable resolution on issues such as child custody, care and alimony, the exercise of visitation rights, and the division of joint property. The aim of the process is not only to achieve a legally binding agreement but also to improve communication and relationships between disputing family members. The advantages of mediation over court proceedings include its speed, confidentiality, and free of charge nature, which consequently leads to a reduction in the number of court cases. The family mediation program has proven to be highly effective, with statistical data showing a success rate of nearly 70 percent. Due to the strong emotional tensions involved, mediators often invite co-mediator from the field of psychology or related discipline, which contributes to greater balance and impartiality in the process. The fundamental principle of family mediation is the safeguarding of the best interests of the child, which the mediator must ensure throughout the entire process as a matter of official duty.
|
